The Manufacturing Institute and the National Center for the Biotechnology Workforce (NCBW) at Forsyth Technical Community College in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, have announced a formal partnership to develop a highly-skilled biotech and pharmaceutical work force.

The program entails a five-year commitment supporting career and technical education, including developing relevant community college programs. The partnership will also advocate for public and private investment in its work force initiatives.

"The biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and medical device industries are among the growing sectors in our manufacturing economy," said Emily DeRocco, president of The Manufacturing Institute. "The continued growth of U.S. manufacturing in these global markets requires a highly-skilled, technical work force. This alliance will develop and implement replicable solutions to the nation's need for a technical work force in support of manufacturing."

"Building partnerships between industry and academic research centers like the NCBW is a strategic imperative in maintaining leadership in invention and innovation," said Russ Read, executive director of the NCBW. "Our partnership with the Institute will enhance our center as an important resource for practical solutions and best practices in educating and training the biotechnology work force."